New data outlines widespread exposure to severe storm damage and highlights regional concentrations of risk across the country.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

A new industry report estimates that more than 43.5 million residential properties across the United States face risk from hail damage, with a combined reconstruction cost value of approximately $17.8 trillion, according to reporting cited by The Epoch Times.

The findings are detailed in Cotality’s 2026 Severe Convective Storm Risk Report, released March 24. The company, based in Irvine, California, identified hail as a leading factor behind property insurance claims nationwide. The report states that hail events can cause structural damage to roofs, leading to leaks, collapse risks, mold growth, and in some cases total property loss. Older roofs are identified as more vulnerable due to material degradation over time.

The report defines reconstruction cost value as the estimated expense required to rebuild a property in the event of a total loss.

States with the highest number of properties at risk include:

  • Texas — nearly 8 million properties; approximately $3.1 trillion in reconstruction cost value
  • Illinois — about 3 million properties; approximately $1.5 trillion in reconstruction cost value

Additional states identified with elevated hail exposure include:

  • Missouri
  • Minnesota
  • Georgia
  • Pennsylvania
  • Colorado
  • Wisconsin
  • Indiana
  • North Carolina

Among metropolitan areas, Chicago ranks highest due to the concentration of properties, with an estimated reconstruction cost value of $1 trillion. A second major concentration, referred to in the report as the “Texas triangle,” includes:

  • Dallas–Fort Worth
  • Houston
  • Austin
  • San Antonio

This region carries a combined reconstruction cost value exceeding $2.2 trillion.

The report compares the financial impact of severe hailstorms to that of a Category 4 hurricane, noting that both can result in extensive structural damage and prolonged power outages.

In addition to hail exposure, the analysis found that more than 76 million U.S. homes face moderate to high risk from tornadoes, representing over $27 trillion in reconstruction cost value.

Historical data included in the report highlights the scale of potential losses. In 2023:

  • More than 680,000 homes in Texas were affected by hail larger than one inch
  • Estimated insured losses ranged from $7 billion to $10 billion

The report states that if the same storm had shifted 15 to 20 miles north into a more densely populated area, insured losses could have increased to between $11 billion and $30 billion.

“A mere 20-mile shift results in a roughly $19 billion difference in potential claims,” the report states.

Data from 2025 shows that hail damage was concentrated in several states:

  • Texas — more than 235,000 homes affected
  • Wyoming — more than 41,000 properties
  • Oklahoma — approximately 38,000 properties
  • Wisconsin — approximately 38,000 properties
  • Kansas — approximately 38,000 properties

The report notes that these five states accounted for about 66% of all U.S. homes impacted by damaging hail that year.

The analysis also highlights the severity of larger hailstones. Hail measuring approximately two inches in diameter can cause:

  • Broken windows and skylights
  • Damage to siding and roofing materials
  • Impacts to electrical infrastructure

The report states that increasing storm-related damage has contributed to rising insurance costs in affected regions and more detailed claim evaluations.

“Restoration contractors are increasingly stepping into consulting and appraisal roles to provide independent quantification, forensic data analysis and engineering insights,” the report notes.

Cotality’s findings include recommendations for reducing risk, focusing on structural improvements and preparedness measures. Suggested steps include:

  • Installing impact-resistant roofing materials
  • Updating structures to meet modern wind-resistance standards
  • Adding permanent storm shutters
  • Using protective coverings for external equipment

The report concludes that property owners can reduce potential damage by adopting building upgrades and protective measures designed for severe weather conditions.

Original article
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